Who can make a difference?
- All residents
- Anyone who sells products used within urban areas that could potentially contaminate water
Causes of groundwater contamination
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Leaching and runoff of contaminants from a variety of residential activities
(for example: lawn and garden products and use of solvents and paints)
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Stormwater runoff containing contaminants from surrounding land and pavement
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Septic systems in previously rural areas that have grown
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Reduction in vegetation that can hold contaminants and prevent erosion
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Soil disturbance that can lead to soil erosion and reduce soil filtration abilities
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Abandoned industrial sites
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Improper decommissioning of wells that are no longer in use
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Motor vehicle leaks and drips
What can you do?
Individual action
- Get involved in local water protection activities:
- Streamside restoration with watershed councils, Soil & Water Conservation
- Districts
- Participate in projects to stencil storm drains [Storm Drain Stenciling]
- Plant water-quality friendly gardens:
- Use drought-tolerant natives
- Choose disease and pest-resistant varieties
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Reduce use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides
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Consider water-savings through drip irrigation
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Properly maintain vehicles and other equipment to prevent leaks
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Take used oil to local recycling facilities
- Properly dispose of hazardous waste by bringing it to community collection events
Community action
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Get involved in local and regional long-range planning activities for water quality protection
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Become a Groundwater Guardian Community